The CHIEF customs computer system will close for import declarations from midnight 30th September 2022.
You need to act NOW!
However, if you have a valid business reason for being unable to migrate to CDS for imports for the 1st October 2022 HMRC require you to ask permission, with suitable justifications, to continue to use CHIEF until the end of October 2022 or until you migrate whichever is the sooner.
During that period HMRC will provide assistance to you to help you quickly migrate to CDS.
HMRC have provided the following key points:
- Import declarations need to be made using the Customs Declaration Service from 1 October 2022. You need to act now and there is help and support available on Gov.UK and YouTube.
- If you know you can’t be ready for that date, you should consider using a customs agent who can help you. We have a list on Gov.UK.
- If you are unable to use CDS for your import declarations or use a customs agent, we are allowing CHIEF badge holders to seek permission for a short extension to use CHIEF beyond 30 September, if you have a clear business reason. You need to apply using an online form and further details are available on Gov.UK.
- Those that successfully apply for an extension will be provided with help and support to move to the Customs Declaration Service as soon as possible.
- A limited group of declarants are unable to fully migrate their imports so can continue to use CHIEF for imports without having to apply for continued use. We will contact those declarants directly to let them know.
- If you continue to use CHIEF from 1 October 2022 without permission, HMRC reserves the right to remove your access.
To ask permission to continue using CHIEF for this limited period of time click here